EMDR is a highly structured, short-term therapy intervention that is useful for treating trauma and PTSD symptoms. While EMDR is considered a top-tier approach for the treatment of trauma, it has also been found effective in treating other problems including anxiety and mood disorders such as depression. EMDR is recognized by the American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychological Association, the Department of Defense, the Veteran's Administration and insurance companies as an effective evidence-based form of treatment.

EMDR utilizes the natural healing ability of your body and mind. After a thorough assessment and development of a treatment plan, you will be asked specific questions about a particular disturbing memory. Eye movements, similar to those during REM sleep, will be recreated simply by asking you to watch the tip of a wand moving back and forth across your visual field. (Sometimes, headphones and hand "tappers" are used instead for those who have difficulty with the rapid eye movements.) The eye movements will last for a short while and then stop. You will then be asked to report back on the experiences you have had during each of these sets of eye movements. Experiences during a session may include changes in thoughts, images and feelings.

With repeated sets of eye movements, the memory tends to change in such a way that it loses its painful intensity and simply becomes a neutral memory of an event in the past. Other associated memories may also heal at the same time. This linking of related memories can lead to a dramatic and rapid improvement in many aspects of your life.

Please call or contact me using the form on this page if you would like to discuss whether EMDR might be helpful for you. If you would like to read more about EMDR please visit the website of EMDRIA (EMDR International Association) by following this link: What Is EMDR Therapy?

James K. Baker, MFT

Questions? Call (510) 788-0006or send me a message.The form below will allow you to send me a secure email. If you'd like me to give you a phone call in return please be sure to include your number and some good times to reach you.

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